Whats better? 1gig @ 800mhz or 2gigs@400mhz

[tyler2time]

Basically my question is in the title. Mainly what i am looking for is running programs in Win7 without any trouble and some gaming. Also if its 2gigs@400mhz does the speed even matter of the other RAM? Also if its 2gigs and i got 2x512mb 400mhz and 2x512 800mhz what order should I install em.

 

[o1die]

Are you sure both memory sets are the same type? ddr doesn't mix with ddr2, even on boards with 2 sets of different memory slots.

 

[tyler2time]

Are you sure both memory sets are the same type? ddr doesn't mix with ddr2, even on boards with 2 sets of different memory slots.

Yea it is DDR2. It's an older machine and I was surprised when I found out it was PC2-3200/400mhz. It will take PC2-5300/667mhz and PC2-6400/800mhz though so got lucky there.

 

[o1die]

With an older chipset motherboard, the speed the newer ram will run may be limited. You'll just have to try the faster memory and see if the board will run all 4 sticks at the slower speed. I would also check the "for sale" sections for used memory, or look at changing out your motherboard for 800 ddr2 support. Newegg sometimes has micro-atx boards for around $30 after rebate with free shipping. They have an email promo list out today with an am2+am3 biostar for $39.99 with free shipping. But you have to register to get the promos.

 

[tyler2time]

It does have 800 ddr2 support